This week a care home in Shinfield opened its doors to creatures great and small, allowing the elderly occupiers to connect with the little guests and share past stories.

Residents at Care UK’s Parsons Grange on Westall Street were overjoyed when a herd of quirky animals paid them a visit.

Creatures included a couple of goats, a tortoise, and rabbits from a local petting zoo.

Resident at Parson Grange Pamela said: “l loved the goats, such funny creatures very naughty and mischievous.”

Residents got to interact with the animals, prompting them to reminisce about trips to the zoo in younger years and pets they’ve had throughout their lives.

Home Manager at Parsons Grange Rozina Ali said: “Goats, rabbits, and tortoises are not our usual visitors, but they certainly put a smile on the resident’s faces!

“Being around animals is a great way of promoting relaxation and improving wellbeing, by providing companionship and increasing activity levels.”

She continued: “We’d like to say a huge thank you to the petting zoo for such a wonderful day – we are looking forward to seeing what creatures we can have visit us next!”